Hello, my name is Marissa and this July, I'll be representing Team USA in the Women's Senior A Dragon Boat division at the 17th World Dragon Boat Racing Championship in Germany! This will be my first time racing internationally and such an incredible honor to represent my country in this sport that I love.

However, Team USA's self-funded costs associated with this opportunity are rapidly accumulating. I'm reaching out to you in the hope that your kind donations will help cover flight, hotel, transportation, food, and uniforms.

Here's an estimated breakdown of related costs:

Whether you contribute a little or a lot, every little bit helps! It means so much to me to have your support.

Although I've lived by the water most of my life, my dragon boat journey only began 3 years ago in Arizona. No beach in sight, but we have an amazing dragon boat community that pretty much lives at Tempe Town Lake and loves to paddle together. My current coaches, Ben and Ilona of the Gilas mixed and Sungi women's teams, both made it to Team USA in 2023, and they have inspired and motivated me and my teammates with their generosity of knowledge, time, and effort.

I've been training almost every day of the week, whether on an OC or dragon boat, and even started lifting weights. It has been a complete lifestyle change for myself and my family. The thought of making the national team had seemed like a faraway dream, a quiet little thought that I kept to myself for a long time. Writing this seems so surreal, but it's really happening this July. In no small part, by the support of my family, coaches, teammates, and friends. It really has taken a village to get me this far.

So, I will continue to train and do my very best to be at the top of my game and make my family and home teams proud. I carry all of your kindness and words of encouragement with me as I train and head to Germany. Hopefully, I will carry back home to you all something shiny we can celebrate together! Thank you for being a part of my journey <3

Recommended donation amount: $20, $50, or $100.

More about the race: https://www.dragonboat.sport/events/idbf-championships-ccwc-wdbrc/